Is It Affordable to Live in Texas? A Cost of Living Guide, Y'all!

Is It Affordable to Live in Texas? A Cost of Living Guide, Y'all!

Thinking about planting roots in Texas? Well, you've come to the right place. From BBQ and Tex-Mex heaven to wide-open spaces and big city lights, Texas has got the charm, the flavor, and will leave you some breathing room in your budget. The Lone Star State might just be the place for you if you want great food, friendly folks, and a cost of living that lets you save more than you spend. 

Does Texas Stack Up? You Betcha!

With Texas sitting as the 15th lowest in cost of living in the U.S., it’s a whole lot easier on the pocketbook compared to pricey places like New York and California. For every $100 you would spend in Texas, that would be about $126.60 up in New York and a jaw-dropping $156 in Cali. So, yes, moving here could save you a pretty penny.

State Income Taxes? Don’t Worry About ‘Em!

One of the best parts about living here is what ain’t on your bill: state income tax. That’s right, Texas is one of only eight states that skip this deduction. So, if you’re fleeing high-tax zones like California or New Jersey, be prepared to keep a whole lot more of your paycheck.

Housing: Plenty of Room and a Little Less Dough

Whether you’re eyeing a condo in Dallas or a home on the range, Texas has over 11 million housing units to pick from, and they tend to be cheaper than the national average. For 2023, the average two-bedroom apartment ran about $1,280 per month – 10.5% less than what you'd find elsewhere. Homes? The state average sits around $297,000, but it depends on the city. For instance, Austin’s going rate is sky-high at $481,739, while Beaumont keeps things chill at $156,639.

Energy and Utilities? Texas Keeps It Cool

Our energy bills may surprise you. Texans shell out just a smidge less than the national average for utilities – $423.90 compared to $429. You’re looking at about $142 for electricity and $61 for natural gas each month. But remember, weather in Texas is all over the map, so some folks prefer a fixed-rate utility plan to dodge big seasonal swings.

Groceries Are Not Gonna Break the Bank

Texas grocery bills are easy on the budget. Your average monthly haul here costs around $289. That’s cheaper than a lot of states, which means you’ll have more left over for those essential BBQ runs.

Fun and Food, Texas Style

Want some fun without burning through your paycheck? You’re in luck. A zoo pass at the Dallas Zoo is just $149, and you’ll get access to over 150 other zoos and aquariums nationwide. A burger in Texas is almost a steal too. Houston and San Antonio are famous for their cheap burger deals, while Austin's $14.56 is on the higher end. Meanwhile, a 24-pack of Bud Light or Miller Lite in Texas costs about $21.72, pretty reasonable compared to Alaska’s $33.62 price tag.

Gas, Cars, and Getting Around

The open road is part of Texas life, and, luckily, it won’t empty your wallet too fast. An average Uber ride in El Paso is about $2.10 per mile, compared to $4.32 in New York City. Plus, car prices aren’t sky-high here, so get ready to cruise around in your own wheels.

Healthcare Is Reasonable, but Still a Chunk

Healthcare in Texas runs about $6,593 a year per person, which falls somewhere in the middle compared to other states. Of course, prices vary based on your plan and needs, but it’s generally reasonable given the quality of care. Just make sure to review options based on your family’s needs to stay within budget.

City Living or Small Town Savings?

When it comes to cost of living, it’s all about where you plant your boots. Austin and Dallas lean a little high at 119.3 and 101.6 on the cost index, but other cities are cheaper. Houston clocks in at 96.5, San Antonio at 89.7, and El Paso way down at 81.4. For the most affordable options, smaller towns like Beaumont, Harlingen, and Wichita Falls are worth a look.

Entertainment & Sports: How Much to See the Cowboys?

If you’re itching to see the Cowboys or Texans live, get ready to spend about $600 for a family of four at a Cowboys game or $550 for the Texans. Yeah, it’s a splurge, but still cheaper than San Fran’s whopping $890 price tag. And, if you’re more into local flavor, a plate from Austin’s famous Franklin Barbecue costs around $28 – worth every penny.

Moving Costs and Other Hidden Fees

Plan on spending about $2,700, give or take, based on distance and how much you’re hauling. And while Texas is warm, it’s also known for its occasional wild weather swings, especially in the winter. If you’re not used to it, you might want a fixed-rate energy plan to keep your bills in check.

Job Market? Texas Means Business

There’s no shortage of work here. Texas has been leading the nation in job growth, with non-farm employment up by 263,900 jobs from January 2023 to January 2024. And though tech slowed down a tad in the big cities, oil and gas are booming again. So, whether you’re an engineer or an oil driller, the state has work for you.

We’re Ready for Ya

If you decide to make the move, be sure to head over to EnergyTexas.com to find the best electricity rates, with top notch customer service and a commitment to a greener planet. 

FAQs

What should I budget for moving to Texas?

Budget around $2,700 to move here, more or less depending on how much stuff you’ve got and how far you’re coming.

Are there any unexpected costs?

One word: weather. Texas winters and summers can get wild, so consider a fixed-rate energy plan to avoid sky-high bills during cold snaps or heat waves.

How much does energy cost?

We’ve got low rates! Electricity averaged 14.31¢ per kilowatt hour in February 2024, far cheaper than California’s average of 31.23¢. Visit EnergyTexas.com to find out what plans are available in your area.